Michael Keaton’s take on the ‘Birdman’ comeback narrative
A misunderstood narrative
Michael Keaton, the iconic actor known for his diverse roles, has recently shared his thoughts on the industry’s portrayal of his role in Birdman (or The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) as a grand Hollywood comeback. Keaton, who was nominated for an Oscar for his performance in the film, finds the narrative somewhat misleading.
“A really, really, really smart guy, a guy I liked a lot, said, ‘Comeback — that’s the story,’” Keaton shared in a recent interview. “I went, ‘Honestly, it’s kind of bullshit.’”
A continuous career
Keaton’s frustration is understandable. Despite the industry’s portrayal, he never truly left the spotlight. Before Birdman, he had a string of consecutive theatrical releases, including notable films like RoboCop and Need for Speed. These roles kept him in the public eye, making the idea of a “comeback” seem unnecessary.
The business of narratives
Keaton acknowledges the business aspect of Hollywood and understands why the comeback story was appealing.
“I thought I could make that [comeback] story up, but I knew I’m going to be bullshitting every time I talk about it,” he said. “By the way, I know business. I like business. Doesn’t bother me. You go, ‘This is a business, man.’”
The meta-narrative of ‘Birdman’
A significant reason for the comeback narrative is the film’s meta-narrative. In Birdman, Keaton plays a washed-up Hollywood actor best known for his role as a superhero, mirroring Keaton’s own history with Batman. This parallel between Keaton and his character blurred the lines, making it easy for audiences and critics to conflate the actor with his role.
Awards and accolades
Keaton’s performance in Birdman earned him numerous accolades, including a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Drama Film. He was also nominated for Best Actor at the Oscars, BAFTA Film Awards, and SAG Awards. The film itself won the Oscar for Best Picture, further cementing its place in cinematic history.
Keaton’s career philosophy
Reflecting on his career strategy, Keaton shared some insightful advice:
“I never panic. If you get desperate, you’re fucked. Don’t ever get desperate. You can get insecure and nervous, and go, ‘Wow, boy, I’m not doing so great right now.’ But when you get desperate, you’re dead.”
A broader perspective
For cinema enthusiasts, Keaton’s story is a reminder of the complexities behind the scenes. The narratives crafted by the industry often serve a purpose, but they don’t always reflect the reality of an actor’s journey. Keaton’s continuous work and dedication to his craft highlight the importance of perseverance and staying true to oneself.
Exploring Keaton’s filmography
For those interested in exploring more of Keaton’s work, here are a few recommendations:
Each of these films showcases Keaton’s versatility and talent, proving that his career is far from a simple comeback story.
Final thoughts
Michael Keaton’s reflections on his career and the industry’s narratives offer valuable insights for both fans and aspiring actors. His journey underscores the importance of resilience and the ability to navigate the ever-changing landscape of Hollywood. As we continue to enjoy his performances, it’s essential to remember the dedication and hard work that go into sustaining a successful career in the entertainment industry.